Already have a Weigela in your yard and wishing you had a few more? Before you head to the garden center and drop a bunch of cash, why not try propagating the one you already have? It’s a fun DIY project that’s easier than you might think. You can grow new plants using:
- Cuttings
- Seeds
Propagating Weigela from Cuttings
Growing a new Weigela from cuttings is definitely the way to go. It’s the easiest method, has a much higher success rate, and gets you a decent-sized plant a lot faster. You can take cuttings anytime during the growing season (spring through fall), but mid-summer is usually the “sweet spot” for the best results.
Which shoots should you choose?
To get those roots growing, you’ll want to snip off shoots that are about 6 to 8 inches long. Look for stems that are:
- Slightly woody (semi-hardwood)
- Finished blooming
- Strong and vigorous
- Healthy and disease-free
How to prep and plant your cuttings
Once you’ve snipped your stems, trim off the soft tip of the shoot and strip away all the leaves except for the top two pairs. Stick the cuttings into a pot with fresh soil, burying them right up to those remaining leaves, and press the soil down firmly. Give them a good drink of water and make sure the soil stays consistently moist.
Your “baby” plants will be happiest in a warm spot with partial shade. Just a heads-up: when the temperature drops in the winter, you’ve got to bring these little guys inside so the frost doesn’t kill them off.
Growing Weigela from Seed
After the flowers fade, Weigela can produce seeds. While these are viable, keep in mind that germination isn’t guaranteed. It’s also a test of patience—it takes quite a long time before a seedling grows into a shrub large enough to bloom.
How to start seeds
Sow your seeds in a pot with starter soil and keep them moist (but not soggy!). For the best chance of success, create a little greenhouse effect by covering the pot with glass or clear plastic wrap. Just make sure to vent it occasionally so they can breathe. Since young seedlings aren’t winter hardy yet, they must spend their first winter indoors.
What’s the best soil for propagation?
Whether you’re starting cuttings or seeds, you’ll want a light, well-draining medium. Good options include:
- Seed-starting mix
- Lean garden soil
- A peat and sand mixture
Caring for your new Weigela plants
The most important rule for young Weigelas is regular watering. However, be careful not to overdo it—standing water leads to root rot, which is a death sentence for new plants. Also, hold off on the fertilizer for now; they don’t need the extra nutrients while they’re still establishing roots.
When can they move out to the garden?
If you started with cuttings, they should have a strong enough root ball to be transplanted into the garden by May (once the danger of frost has passed). If you’re growing from seed, you’ll likely need to wait an extra year before they’re sturdy enough to move to their permanent home outdoors.
